Isoamyl cinnamate

Description

Isoamyl cinnamate has a balsamic odor reminiscent of cocoa. May be prepared by esterification of cinnamic acid with commercial isoamyl alcohols, which vary in isomer distribution according to source.

Chemical properties

pale yellow liquid with an iridescent sheen

Chemical properties

Isoamyl cinnamate is a colorless, somewhat viscous liquid. Insoluble in water, soluble in alcohol and oils, poorly soluble in Propylene glycol. B.P. 310℃. Sp.Gr. 1.00. Isoamyl cinnamate has a balsamic odor reminiscent of cocoa.

Occurrence

Reported found in cinnamon and port wine

The Uses of Isoamyl cinnamate

Isoamyl cinnamate is Used in perfumes for Oriental notes, Chypre, Ambre, and as a fixative-blender in spicy fragrance types (Carnation etc.). Quite stable in soap and a fair fixative. However, it tends to polymerize in storage. An increasing cloudiness, accompanied by increased viscosity and decreased odor level are signs of beginning polymerization. It is used in flavors for imitation Butter, Caramel, Fruit, Honey, Peach, Pineapple, Strawberry, etc. and in traces in Vanilla compositions to introduce warm-balsamic notes resembling Cocoa or Chocolate. Concentrations in finished foods: up to 12 ppm in candy or baked goods.

Preparation

By esterification of cinnamic acid with commercial isoamyl alcohols, which vary in isomer distribution according to source.

Definition

ChEBI: Isoamyl cinnamate is a cinnamate ester.

Taste threshold values

Taste characteristics at 35 ppm: sweet, floral, powdery, berry, and spice nuances

General Description

Pale yellow liquid with iridescent sheen.

Air & Water Reactions

Insoluble in water.

Reactivity Profile

An ester. Esters react with acids to liberate heat along with alcohols and acids. Strong oxidizing acids may cause a vigorous reaction that is sufficiently exothermic to ignite the reaction products. Heat is also generated by the interaction of esters with caustic solutions. Flammable hydrogen is generated by mixing esters with alkali metals and hydrides.

Fire Hazard

Isoamyl cinnamate is probably combustible.